04/15/02  SOB Program at 3/26 Stemmons Corridor Luncheon

On March 26, Linda Neel and I attended Stemmons Corridor luncheon, and the day's topic on SOB's (topless bars).  

Briefly, this is what the speakers said:

David Williams - Asst. Director Code Compliance - There are 40 inspectors to enforce city codes.  They resolve problems within 48 hours for non-hazard and all others in 10 days.  Every 30 days the cases are cycled.  A fine of $2,000/day can be charged if the problem requires a citation.  Property can be seized if you do not take care of the problem.

Captain Jack Bragg - DPD Vice Section -  His officers work from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. (flex hours), and work around all vice complaints (prostitution, gambling, etc.).   He said prostitution is contained to certain areas (mostly where there are SOB's).   Since HB 1460, out of state prostitutes are no longer flying in to work in Dallas for the weekends because they risk going to jail for up to six months.  He assured us they are doing all they can to control the topless bar problem.

Paul Fletcher - Asst. City Attorney -  Of the 70 city criminal attorneys, he is one of the best city attorneys representing us at License and Appeal Board hearings and in court.   Several years ago, the city had one attorney handling SOB cases, but now there are more than three.  He explained the very long process to shut down an SOB.  The SOB's make so much money that litigation is part of their operating  expense.

Dan Panette - Heads the Center for Decency.  He is an attorney by profession and does a great job heading this organization.  He said community involvement is VERY important.  The clubs main objective is to make a lot of money.  At this time, there are 90 potential locations out of 238 within the city where these clubs can operate.  The detrimental effect they have on neighborhoods is a hard argument to make.  The best argument is Better Use. This is why we all must know what vacant properties are around us. The phone number for this organization is (972) 239-8129.

In closing, don't forget our monthly United Community Force meetings.  Our purpose is to fight this plague through legislation next year in Austin, the only way SOB's have too much money and power.  We meet at Grawyler Recreation Center on Harry Hines from 10 a.m. to noon on the first Saturday of the month.   Please call Wilma Avalos (214) 357-4854 or me (214) 357-2398.

           Mary Lou Montes Zijderveld